Inspirational Devon Teacher Wins Prestigious National Teaching Award

Teacher Matt Buck from Chances Alternative Education School in Dawlish, Devon, is the Silver winner for  Pearson National Teaching’s  ‘Unsung Hero’ Award. Selected from thousands of nominees across the UK, the win highlights the remarkable impact that Matt and Chances have on shaping the lives of the young people in their care.

Chances is an OFSTED registered ‘Good’ school. They provide short-term alternative education provision for students who, for a range of reasons, are struggling in their mainstream school. After time at our provision, with the support of our great teachers and skilled youth workers, most students reintegrate back into their mainstream school successfully.

Mr Buck is a Mathematics Teacher at Chances Alternative Education who is an exemplary educator who goes above and beyond to support every child in his care. He is committed to creating a positive learning environment and can recognise the unique needs of his students, especially those from disadvantaged backgrounds (which is the majority of the cohort). Through his exceptional classroom skills and personal approach, he ensures that each child makes impressive progress and achieves well academically. 

Students often pick Mr Buck (along with his dog Kuma - Chances therapy dog) to be their key worker, due to the love they have for him. His contributions enrich the wider school community, creating a positive ripple effect that enhances the overall educational experience for everyone involved. Matt Buck embodies the spirit of excellence, inspiration and commitment to the holistic development of every child, making him a very worthy silver winner of The ‘Unsung Hero’ Award. 

Matt Buck is one of 102 deserving teachers, lecturers, leaders, support staff and institutions named as silver winners in this year’s awards. They will now be in the running for the coveted Gold Award, which will be announced at a ceremony in London later this year. The announcement comes as celebrities, students and schools across the UK are today paying tribute to all those who work in education to mark National Thank a Teacher Day, which celebrates the whole education community and shines a light on the exceptional impact they have on shaping young lives.

National Thank a Teacher Day and the Pearson National Teaching Awards are run by the Teaching Awards Trust, an independent charity established over 25 years ago to celebrate the transformative impact of education, shining a spotlight on the pivotal roles teachers, support staff, colleges, schools and early years educators play in inspiring young people, every single day.

Gary Hayes, Head Teacher of Chances Alternative Education, says:

"It is with great pride that we celebrate Matt's well-deserved recognition as an 'Unsung Hero.' Matt always puts the children first, consistently going above and beyond to ensure their success and well-being. He embodies everything that is good about teaching and is a true pleasure to work with here at Chances School. His dedication and passion make him an invaluable member of our team, and this award is a testament to his unwavering commitment to our students and community."

Sharon Hague, Managing Director of School Assessment & Qualifications at Pearson UK, says:

“We’re delighted to recognise this year’s Silver Award winners on their outstanding achievements. The contributions they make and the impact they have on young people’s lives every day is truly exceptional. We’re extremely proud to support the National Teaching Awards and mark the achievements of all of our very worthy winners. Thank you for your continued work and congratulations!!”

Visit their website: https://www.chancesschool.com/